Big Bash comes to Metricon Stadium

Big Bash comes to Metricon Stadium

Metricon Stadium will break new ground these summer holidays when it hosts two Brisbane Heat matches and one Melbourne Stars game in its first year of BBL matches at Metricon Stadium.

The Heat will play back to back matches at Metricon Stadium against Hobart Hurricanes (Saturday 22 December) and a New Year’s Day clash with the Sydney Sixers.

In another first, the Melbourne Stars will also take a game to Metricon Stadium, hosting the Sydney Thunder on Saturday 5 January, to make it three BBL fixtures at Metricon Stadium.

Queensland Cricket Chief Executive Officer Max Walters said the Heat club would reach more fans than ever this summer with the addition of BBL matches at Gold Coast’s Metricon Stadium.

“Queensland Cricket and Cricket Australia have made a significant investment in the infrastructure at Metricon Stadium in partnership with the Department of Innovation, Tourism Industry Development and the Commonwealth Games, the City of Gold Coast and the Gold Coast Suns and we are delighted to confirm a three-year commitment to play Heat matches at the venue,’’ he said.

“The support from all stakeholders reinforces the BBL’s prominent place in the summer holiday period and we’re excited to promote the many attractions the Gold Coast has to offer for fans coming to enjoy our matches during peak holiday period.”

Minister for Tourism Industry Development and Minister for the Commonwealth Games Kate Jones said the announcement was a fantastic legacy from the Games.

“Our investment in sporting infrastructure at Carrara has ensured Metricon Stadium is now at the standard required to host elite cricket matches.” Ms Jones said.

“We invested in Metricon Stadium to bring world-class cricket to the Gold Coast because we know major events attract visitors, create jobs and grow the local economy.

“Not only will Gold Coast cricket fans and visitors get to see some BBL action this season, but Metricon will also play host to a T20 International match.”

Mayor Tom Tate said today’s announcement to include the Gold Coast in the Big Bash League was a clear indication of how far the city’s reputation had come in hosting major events.

“And although Metricon Stadium was upgraded in 2011, it has never hosted a cricket match. I am sure everyone will agree this superb venue is the ideal location for Big Bash cricket.”

Gold Coast Suns Chief Executive Officer Mark Evans said the club was delighted to partner with cricket.

“The Gold Coast Suns are thrilled to be hosting three BBL matches a year at Metricon Stadium over the next three years. This summer will see Metricon Stadium host an International T20 fixture between Australia and South Africa in November as well as Big Bash matches,’’ he said.

“Metricon Stadium is a world class regional multi-purpose sports and entertainment venue that has a proven track record of delivering outstanding events and experiences whether that be an AFL match, major international athletics meet, concerts and now Big Bash cricket.”